Kulala Desert Lodge

In a beautiful, desert valley surrounded by ancient fossilised dunes and mountains are the famous ranges of huge apricot coloured dunes, which occupy hundreds of square miles of this part of the Namib Desert.

Fourteen thatched and canvas chalets or "Kulalas" (Kulala in the Namibian language "oshiwambo" means "to sleep") with en-suite bathrooms and showers are set on wooden platforms to provide maximum airflow. For outdoor enthusiasts, mattresses can be moved to the rooftop to sleep under the stars from a private star gazing platform.

The main lodge, with its interior inspired from northern Africa, has a lounge, pub, dining area and plunge pool, and offers a wrap-around veranda that overlooks the waterhole and provides a perfect location to view and photograph the desert sunset. Early morning guided game drives to the spectacular dunes are through a private gate on the Tsauchab River.

In the beautiful, desert valley surrounded by ancient fossilised dunes and mountains are the famous ranges of huge apricot coloured dunes, which occupy hundreds of square miles of this part of the Namib Desert. Sossusvlei itself is a huge dried-up clay pan over which tower some of the highest sand dunes in the world. During a good rainy season, the Tsauchab River sometimes reaches the pan, attracting a number and variety of aquatic birds. Even in the dry season oryx, springbok and ostriches can be seen wandering over the pan, feeding on the sparse vegetation along the watercourses. This is a singularly beautiful wild and romantic spot, surrounded by dunes that extend as far as the eye can see.

Game drives and walks are offered on the private reserve with incredible views, desert game and smaller desert fauna and flora. Another option, at an extra cost, is early morning ballooning. Beginning at first light, the 60-90 minute balloon safari offers a truly unique experience to soar silently above the magnificent sand dunes and desert - with a champagne breakfast served at your landing site.

Read more about a luxury Namibia Safari